cytonn-photography-vWchRczcQwM-unsplash

About The CDL Initiative (CDLI)

Our non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, Tough Start Incorporated (TSI) is reaching out to various companies in several states.  We want to tell you about ‘The CDL Initiative’, a professional truck driver training program that addresses the shortage of well trained, qualified drivers.  This unique program is intended to introduce low-income, inner-city and rural residents to various career opportunities in the vast transportation industry. The ultimate goal is for our program participants to earn a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and or learn the skills necessary to obtain a job in the logistics and supply chain management field.

TSI is an eligible training provider (ETP) for the State of Indiana (Workforce Development).  Our application for the State of Alabama is pending.

      

Types of Partnerships Needed

In 2019, TSI's apprenticeship programs were approved and certified by the U.S. Department of Labor.  We serve as an Intermediary and Sponsor.  It is our desire to develop partnerships with various businesses and organizations in the transportation industry, municipalities, and workforce development agencies.

The CDL Initiative (CDLI) will produce safe and competent truck drivers, eligible for entry-level employment.  Program participants will complete 160 hours of instruction prior to receiving a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).  Employer partners are needed for 2,000 hours of on-the-job-learning (apprenticeships), which will include additional supervised driving hours. Apprentices should then be able to safely operate tractor-trailers or other types of commercial vehicles as solo drivers.

It is TSI’s goal to lower training expenses for both the program participant, as well as the employer partner.  We plan to utilize private grants, scholarships, company sponsorships, Veteran’s benefits, and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds, to cover tuition and fees.

 

Tax Deductible Donations Needed

  1. SEMI-TRUCK(S) FOR:
    • On-site (Yard) Instruction
    • Road Instruction
    • CDL Road Test
  2. TRAINING FACILITIES FOR:
    • On-site (Yard) Instruction
  3. OTHER IN-KIND:
    • Driving Instructors
    • Training Equipment
    • Miscellaneous Supplies

Please contact us at 1-800-798-6613.